Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Melissa Harris, Owner of Thrive Health and Fitness, located in Canton, MI, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Thrive Health and Fitness provides fitness and nutrition services. We offer a monthly membership that includes an initial consultation, behavior, and habit coaching, a new workout every four weeks, nutrition guidance, and weekly check-ins.

Our focus is on women who need help with their fitness journey. If you're struggling to prioritize your health, we are here to help you find a realistic and long-term solution.

Tell us about yourself

As a mom who had four children in 5 years, I was depressed, sad, felt empty, angry, lost, and trying to find myself as I went through the same routine every day - wake up early, slam coffee, drop kids at daycare, go to work all day, pick up kids, evening routine, sleep, and repeat. My marriage was struggling, which ended in divorce, and I knew I wanted to be a better version of myself. I wanted more; I knew I had to make a change. I began to realize I was giving my attention to all of the wrong things and was not prioritizing the things that should have been critical. My health, both mental and physical, had to become #1. Otherwise, I could not take care of the people and things I cared so deeply about.

Instead of looking for distractions, I began to take my time seriously. Working out became a necessity for me. I had to learn how to eat for my body. I had to have to make time to be alone. I had to take care of myself to be there for the people I cared so much about.

There are days in which I struggle with this, but when I stumble, I can get back on my feet quickly now that I have established these disciplines.
Melissa Harris is a certified personal trainer, certified online personal trainer, and certified nutrition specialist. Melissa has almost 20 years of experience helping friends and family, and most importantly, herself, achieve their health and fitness goals.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Working full time, with five kids, and a wife, I decided to take a risk and open my own health and fitness.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

The mom guilt. Being a working mother and business owner, there are times when I feel I should focus more on my children. However, I've learned to prioritize what's important each day and communicate with my children about my business and career. They're involved in my career, and we support each other.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. You have more time than you think to make something, no excuses.
  2. Plan your day based on priority and let everything else go.
  3. Have FUN!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://thrivehealthfit.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087041882091
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivehealthfit/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrive-health-and-fitness-llc/


If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.